The Fleeting Prize

A tempting path, a gilded door,

A chance to shine, perhaps to soar.

But deep within, a voice did speak,

A different course, a choice to seek.

The strength to stand, the will to say,

"This glitters bright, but leads astray."

For what we crave and what we need,

Can sometimes plant a different seed.

The courage held, the "no" declared,

A weight released, a burden spared.

For open fields and skies unknown,

Hold futures yet to be our own.

So let them chase the fleeting prize,

While you, with wisdom in your eyes,

Embrace the wait, the patient quest,

For chances true will stand the test.